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The Executives' Club of Chicago, September 10, 1965
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The Executives' Club of Chicago, September 10, 1965
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Gerald R. Ford Congressional Papers
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The original documents are located in Box D18, folder "The Executives' Club of Chicago,
September 10, 1965" of the Ford Congressional Papers: Press Secretary and Speech File at
the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Copyright Notice
The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of
photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. The Council donated to the United
States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections.
Works prepared by U.S. Government employees as part of their official duties are in the public
domain. The copyrights to materials written by other individuals or organizations are presumed to
remain with them. If you think any of the information displayed in the PDF is subject to a valid
copyright claim, please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
EXECUTIVES' CLUB
Volume 42, No. 1
CHICAGO 2, U.S.A.
September 17, 1965
House Minority Leader Speaks to Capacity
Crowd at Club's 55th Year Opener.
Rep. Ford (R-Mich.) declared
that in "ramming through" the
bill to knock out right-to-work
laws, the White House virtu-
ally ordered second-class citi-
zenship for millions of workers.
players of 25 years past who had contributed
the most to their fellow citizens.
Minority Leader Ford was raised in Grand
Rapids, Michigan, and graduated with high
honors from the University of Michigan
in 1935.
He was a member of the undefeated Na-
tional Championship Football Teams of
PARTY SPOKESMAN
1932 and 1933; named Michigan's most
valuable player in 1934 and played against
Welcoming the distinguished Congressman from Michigan are (L-R) John Dreiske, Political Editor,
the Chicago Bears in the All-Star Game of
Chicago Sun-Times; Donald J. Erickson, President of the Club; Congressman Gerald R. Ford, Jr.,
1935. And my question to him was, "What
Guest Speaker; Leo Burnett, Chairman of the Board, Leo Burnett Company and Ragnar Benson,
was the score?" He promised to answer that
Chairman of the Board, Ragnar Benson Incorporated.
in his remarks. (Laughter)
He received his law degree from Yale in
PRESIDENT ERICKSON: "What is a
our guest has received many awards ac-
1941 and was admitted to the Michigan
minority? The chosen heroes of this earth
knowledging his leadership abilities. He
State Bar that year. After nearly four years
have been in a minority. It is the minority
was voted one of America's ten outstanding
of naval service, he was discharged in 1946
that has achieved all that is noble in the
young men by the United States Chamber
with the rank of lieutenant commander.
history of the world."
of Commerce in 1949; placed high in a
Returning to the practice of law, our
As leader of one of the major minorities
Newsweek poll to determine the ablest
speaker became active with the Young Re-
in the United States today, this quote from
member of Congress; received the Disting-
publicans in a campaign to clean up corrup-
uished Congressional Service Award from
John B. Gough might well have been writ-
tion in local Government. His political work
ten with Gerald R. Ford in mind.
the American Political Science Association,
led, in the summer of 1948, to the Re-
and in 1959 was selected by Sports Illus-
publican nomination for Congress; and in
In Congress for 15 years, Representative
trated to receive its Silver Anniversary All-
November to his election by a substantial
Ford was elected minority leader of the
American Award as one of twenty-five
margin.
House the day after his sixteenth anniver-
sary as a member of that body. Since then,
our guest has continued to wage his own
war on the subject of balance in Govern-
Our Next Program
ment. His idea of a great society is consid-
erably different from the current one, and
he does not hesitate to speak out for him-
MICHAEL G. O'NEIL
FORD i LIBRARY GERALD
self and those with similar persuasion.
President, The General Tire & Rubber Co.
A member of several Congressional com-
September 24, 1965
Grand Ballroom, Sherman House
mittees, including that of appropriations,
Digitized from Box D18 of The Ford Congressional Papers: Press Secretary and Speech File at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library
Page 2
Executives' Club News
Executives' Club News
Page 3
A few weeks before his victory, he mar-
still recall, and for the past 20 years they
Designed Balance in Government
I think it was understandable that the
The Executives' Club of Chicago
spend out of the Federal Treasury approxi-
stands unalterably for the Constitution of the
ried Elizabeth Bloomer of Grand Rapids,
have been some guidelines to me and in my
wise men who drafted the Constitution
mately 127 billion dollars every twelve
United States as handed down to US by our
who has become something of a minority
thinking.
For my substantive remarks today I would
would want a separation of powers and a
months.
forefathers and under which we have lived
leader herself, of three sons and one daugh-
like to talk about "Balance in Government."
division of responsibilities. Either they or
for the past 175 years; and affirms that the
The first quote from Harold's speech is
I think that the history of the United States
In addition, you will note that in the
their forefathers had fled from the autocracy
ter.
fundamental principles it asserts form the basis
as follows:
Executive branch of the Government we
will clearly indicate that whenever we have
and tyranny of mainly Western Europe, and
of true Americanism.
It is my great honor and pleasure to
had an imbalance in Government, whenever
find a veritable army of experts, researchers,
"A Government big enough to give you
the Constitution was drafted to be a lasting
present the distinguished Member of Con-
we have had the scales tilted far too much,
propagandists, public relationists and the
everything you want is a Government big
bulwark against the concentration of power
rest. The net result is that we find a tre-
OFFICERS
gress, Representative Gerald R. Ford.
enough to take from you everything you
there has been a loss of liberty and a failure
in the hands of one man or one segment of
mendous concentration of power and au-
PRESIDENT - Donald J. Erickson, Partner, Ar-
(The audience arose and applauded)
have." (Applause)
of progress. On the other hand, when the
our society.
thur Andersen & Company.
scales are balanced nearly evenly, we have
thority in the hands of one branch of the
1st VICE PRESIDENT Charles J. Scanlon,
THE HONORABLE GERALD R. FORD:
This sound comment has affected my views
President, Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago.
maintained our freedom and have made
It is my honest opinion and judgment
Federal Government.
President Don, so many of my good friends
politically and on many legislative matters
2nd VICE PRESIDENT - Wyatt Jacobs, Partner,
progress in America.
that today we find an erosion in each of
Jacobs & McKenna.
I have had an opportunity to see again,
in the past sixteen and a half years. Particu-
these two instances. It is my judgment that
Legislative Branch Squeezed
SECRETARY John A. Orb, Vice President,
members of the Executives' Club of Chi-
larly it has affected my views on some of
There are three cornerstones in my judg-
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith.
today the judicial system is to some extent
TREASURER Dona'd J. Griffin, Vice President,
cago: It really is a great privilege and a
the so-called Great Society legislation that
ment that are important in our American
elbowing its way into areas that were not
In contrast, I think you will find that the
Chicago Title & Trust Company.
great honor to have the opportunity of
we have seen in the Congress since January
political society. Two of these cornerstones
intended at the time the Constitution was
Legislative branch, represented by the Con-
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Arthur R. Stewart,
being here this afternoon. Don, I do want
of 1965.
are constitutionally ordained. The first, the
gress, is being squeezed down. Let me give
Suite 1126, 111 West Washington Street, Chi-
drafted.
cago 2, ANdover 3-3500.
to tell you what the score of that ball game
Another quote from Harold's speech went
relationship between the Executive, the Leg-
you some figures that I think will be inter-
was. It is hard to believe it in this day and
as follows: "You can't make footprints on
islative and the Judicial branches of our
I happen to subscribe to the views of the
esting to show the comparative strength of
DIRECTORS
age, but the score was five to nothing. And
the sands of time by sitting down." I think
Federal Government. The drafters of the
late Justice Felix Frankfurter who, as the
the Legislative branch vis-a-vis the Execu-
Samuel L. Andelman Commissioner of Health,
I might add that in training for the game in
this is good advice for me or for anybody
Constitution very wisely decided that they
lawyers here well know, espoused the phil-
tive branch. The Congress has 535 elected
Chicago Board of Health.
those days, and I guess now, the college all-
else.
would give certain specific powers to the
osophy of judicial restraint. It seems to me
officials and about 9000 employees. We
Charles H. Beardsley - President, James L. Lyon
Company.
stars spent three weeks on the campus of
Executive branch of the Government; they
that this was sound judgment and that his
have a rather small budget compared to that
Herbert C. Brook - Partner, Lord, Bissell & Brook.
Northwestern University.
would establish a strong executive. On the
recommendations were wise.
of the Executive branch of the Government.
Philip R. Clarke, Jr. - Senior Vice President &
other hand, they determined that there
We are shorthanded in the kind of people
Director, Chicago Corporation.
I am glad to have noticed in the paper
ON THE AIR
would be a strong Legislative branch of the
On the other hand, the Executive branch
that can give the tools to the Legislative
Richard T. Cragg - Merchandise Manager, R.
Cooper Jr., Inc.
today that the Congressman who represents
Programs of The Executives' Club
Government; that the Congress would play
of Government is increasing its power and
branch that they need to meet the challenge
Robert Crown - Chairman, Freeman Coal Mining
that area, Don Rumsfeld has been nomi-
a vital role in the workings of our govern-
strength. I often wonder whether or not
of the Executive branch of the Government.
Corporation.
nated as one of Chicago's outstanding young
of Chicago are broadcast over
Alex Dreier - Administrative Vice President,
mental operations. They also provided that
our citizens as a whole really understand
One thing that bothers me particularly
United Insurance Company of America.
men. I can say without hesitation or quali-
FM station WKFM (103.5) every
we should have a strong judicial system
the size of the Federal Government. Today
about the situation legislative vis-a-vis the
Douglas R. Fuller - President, The Northern Trust
fication that in my judgment Don Rumsfeld
Friday evening (with few excep-
under the Supreme Court. In each case,
we have 2,500,000 civilian employees whose
Company.
executive, is that of the multitude of people
is one of the most able, the most dedicated,
tions) at 9:00 P.M. of the day of
those that drafted the Constitution in Phila-
annual payroll is over 14 billion dollars.
G. Findley Griffiths - Chairman of the Board,
that work for the Executive branch, in effect
Interlake Steel Corporation
one of the finest members of either the
our meeting. All Friday broad-
delphia almost 200 years ago, gave specific
And when the President makes a recom-
only one person out of the two and a half
Wyatt Jacobs - Partner, Jacobs & McKenna.
House or the Senate and I applaud his
responsibilities to each of the three coordi-
mendation for a 4% increase in compensa-
casts of the club luncheons are
million civilians and 2.7 million military-
Norman A. Korfist - Presiding Judge, 4th Muni-
nomination.
cipal District.
nate branches of the Federal Government.
tion for civilian employees of the Federal
only one person every four years-puts his
Robert L. Lasater, Jr. - Representative, The Read-
(Applause)
sponsored by Bell Savings and
But, I always hasten to add a postscript:
Government, it is not a small, inconsequen-
record on the line. This vast group of em-
er's Digest.
Loan Association.
Those who put together this historic docu-
tial amount.
Harold W. Lewis Vice President, First National
I might start my remarks by telling you
ployees who work for our Federal Govern-
Bank of Chicago.
of the letter that I received from Art Stew-
ment gave no superiority to any one of the
The Executive branch of the Government
ment in effect are never challenged by the
Harry C. Murphy President, Chicago, Burlington
three branches of the Federal Government.
art inviting me to participate in the program
voters of this country. And I think there is
& Quincy Railroad Company.
Station WTAQ (1300 KC) in La
also has under its control and jurisdiction,
Michael R. Notaro President & Chairman of the
today. It went something like this:
Another cornerstone of our political so-
Grange broadcasts the entire
2,700,000 military personnel. Now, I can
a growing apprehension in the minds of
Board, Statistical Tabulating Corporation.
Edwin A. Olson Vice President Traffic, Chi-
ciety was the establishment of the Federal,
see they are in a little different category
many people about this octopus.
cago & North Western Railroad Company.
"Dear Congressman Ford:
Executive Club programs at 8:30
State and Local Government relationships.
than civilian employees, but they are a part
Let me tell you a story that I think best
Harvey S. Olson President, Olson Travel Organi-
"The Executives' Club of Chicago has
P.M. on the Monday following
Our Constitution provides that each state
of the Executive branch and their annual
zation.
exemplifies it. My wife, family and I live
a tradition of having outstanding speak-
Edward H. Robertson - Partner, Price Waterhouse
ers. We have had in the past Mr. Harry
our Friday meeting.
shall be sovereign and that the Federal Gov-
payroll is something over 14 billion dollars
in Alexandria, Virginia, just outside the
& Company.
ernment is a Government of limited powers
per year. So in effect, you have in the Execu-
District of Columbia. One of our next door
Gilbert H. Scribner, Jr. - President, Scribner &
Truman (laughter), Mr. Bob Taft-"
Company.
with specifically delegated responsibilities,
tive branch of Government today: about
neighbors is a very high ranking official of
and it went on with a long list of people
Thomas F. Seay - President, Seay & Thomas, Inc.
and under our Constitution our local gov-
five million, two or three hundred thousand,
the Internal Revenue Service. The other day
who have spoken before it. And it said:
I must say, however, that back on January
Peter Van Cleave Vice President, James S.
erning units were given responsibilities to
4, when I became the Minority Leader by
with a total annual payroll of about 28 to
he was cutting his lawn and I was cutting
Kemper & Company.
"I hope you will accept. Up until now
carry on for the people back home.
Richard B. Walbert - Vice President - Blyth &
the landslide vote of 74 to 67, (laughter)
29 billion dollars a year and the right to
mine and we stopped on this hot Sunday
Company, Inc.
we have had good programs.' (Laughter)
I had no idea there would be so many
C. R. Walgreen, Jr. - Chairman of the Board,
Walgreen Company.
Actually, this is my first opportunity to
extra non-legislative responsibilities. I have
Lloyd E. Yoder Former Vice President & Gen-
attend an Executives' Club meeting since
actually lost count of the number of speeches
eral Manager, National Broadcasting Company,
the late fall of 1945 when I came as the
Profit
Inc.
that I have made, but I do know that I have
guest of one of the Club's then most active
been in 27 states since January 4, and I am
members, Mr. Harold MacLean who, at that
Complete
The opinions and statements of persons address-
expected to be in 17 additional states before
Safety
time, lived on the North Shore. Harold
This quality-in-depth service combines wide
ing The Executives' Club of Chicago are those of
the end of the year. Now if traveling is
such persons and not necessarily those of the Club
or ats members, and the Club disclaims any re-
and his wife had befriended me as a young
Real Estate
Convenience
experience with advanced equipment like the
broadening, Mr. Olson, I should be 10 feet
1401 Data-processing system to give you the
sponsibility therefor.
Navy lieutenant who toward the end of
fastest and most economical solutions to your
wide. (Laughter)
the war, was stationed at Glenview Naval
Service
data-processing problems.
EXECUTIVES' CLUB NEWS
Air Station.
Your toastmaster's overly generous re-
for your
Phone 346-7300 for the better way
Published weekly from the second Friday
marks remind me that oftentimes introduc-
savings
Problem-Solving is Our Only Product
after Labor Day to the first week in June.
I attended the Executives' Club luncheon
tions are far more memorable than the
THE EXECUTIVES' CLUB OF CHICAGO
INSURED
111 West Washington Street, Chicago 2
on that occasion as his guest and he was
speeches that they precede. For example, I
ANdover 3-3500
the speaker. Those of you who knew Harold
have been told that the Governor of the
ARTHUR RUBLOFF
Statistical
stc
Annual Subscription
MacLean, of course, knew of his tremendous
Virgin Islands was once introduced to a din-
& Co.
BELL
SAVINGS
TABULATING CORPORATION
2 Riverside Plaza, Chicago, III. 60606
Members $3.00
Non-Members $10.00
oratorical ability. The substance of his re-
ner audience in these unforgettable words:
AND LOAN ASSOCIATION
Offices in Principal Cities
Extra Copies 15 cents
marks on that occasion made an indelible
"Now ladies and gentlemen, I present the
the Weather Bell corner
"Entered as second class matter October 5
Virgin of the Governor's Islands." (Laugh-
69 WEST WASHINGTON STREET
CORNER OF MONROE AND CLARK, CHICAGO 3, ILLINOIS Financial 6-1000
STATISTICAL MARK OF EXCELLENCE
1948 at the post office at Chicago, Illinois, under
impression on me. As a matter of fact, there
CHICAGO, ILL. 60602 AN 3-5400
the Act of March 3, 1879.
were two quotes from that speech which I
ter)
Guests and members seated at the Speaker's
was rammed through the House of Repre-
Table Friday, September 10, 1965, to hear
sentatives in a very cavalier way.
Congressman Gerald R. Ford, Jr. were, (top
Silent Treatment
left to right) Norton Kay, Richard W. Huthert,
Hayes Robertson, Thomas J. Houser, John
For example, the House Republicans pre-
Dreiske, Clinton E. Frank, Ward L. Quaal, A.
pared in good conscience 29 amendments,
Thomas Etcheson, Leo Burnett, Wyatt Jacobs,
each aimed at making the proposed legisla-
Cong. Gerald R. Ford, Donald J. Erickson, Pres-
tion more sensible, more meaningful and
ident of the Club. Shown below (left to right)
more within the guidelines of the Constitu-
Harvey S. Olson, Kenneth S. Kamm, Justice
tion. Of these 29 amendments, four were
Robert E. English, Timothy P. Sheehan, Ragnar
debated for five minutes, 14 were given no
Benson, Charles H. Percy, James P. Gorter,
opportunity to even be debated. They im-
Edward J. Hekman, Martin J. Koldyke, Francis
posed time limitations so severe on the
T. Delaney, Carl E. Atwood.
membership of the House that 14 of these
amendments could be read and voted upon
without one word spoken in defense or
opposition.
in Washington and chatted for a few min-
utes. He is a very sound and honest guy.
And let me enumerate the silent treat-
He said, "Gerry, look, you might be inter-
ment that was given. The silent treatment
ested. Have you ever noticed that on one
was given to several amendments that would
of the income tax forms, up in the upper
have concentrated 200 million dollars in
right-hand corner-" maybe Don has- "it
Federal funds on the educational needs of
says, 'Please do not write here'?"
economically deprived children.
And this man from the Internal Revenue
The silent treatment was ordered for
Service said, "You would be surprised at
another amendment requiring state approval
the number of people who put on their
of supplementary educational centers to as-
Internal Revenue Tax Form, 'I'll write any
sure coordination of Federal activities with
damn place I feel'." (Laughter and applause)
state plans and policies.
The silent treatment was given an amend-
State and Local Government Bypassed
ment demanding that Federally financed
I also feel that the traditional relation-
local education centers be conducted in ac-
passing by the Federal Government of the
multi-party governments throughout the
ing whether to clap their hands or click
First, the problem of Federal Aid to Edu-
ship between the Federal, State and Local
cordance with state law.
state education agencies, with the Federal
world. Yes, I think a strong two-party sys-
their heels. (Laughter and applause)
Governments is being eroded, even though
cation. Early in this session the President
Government making contracts directly with
tem is an equally important cornerstone in
The silent treatment was given to an
this has been a bulwark of strength over
When you have this awesome power that
sent to the Congress a rather substantial
amendment to remove the Federal Govern-
the local boards of education. It seems to
the American political system.
I have described in an Executive branch of
Federal Aid to Education Bill. The word
the years. The states, in effect, are no longer
me that if this trend continues, you will
Today, I am sorry to say for more reasons
the Government, and when you have the
ment from involvement in buying textbooks.
sovereign. The states are being bypassed
was passed from the White House to the
continue to find that the states will lose
than one, we don't have a strong two-party
complete imbalance that exists in the House
Congress that this measure should have per-
The silent treatment was given to an
day after day by the Federal Government.
their potency and in effect become a mere
and the Senate today, I think that some of
amendment that would remove Federal
We have a good illustration today in the
system in America, and particularly we
functory hearings; that this measure should
adjunct to the Federal Government.
don't have a strong two-party system in the
the things we believe to be important are
poverty program. Substantial contracts, sub-
not be changed significantly in committee.
standards of approval for local educational
Congress of the United States. The net re-
in jeopardy. A question to be answered
Such hearings were held. The bill as sub-
centers.
stantial arrangements, substantial funds go
Value of Two-Party System
sult is that many of the safeguards which
under the current circumstances is: does
mitted by the White House was barely
The silent treatment prevented exhaustive
directly from the Federal Government to
There is another cornerstone I would
have been traditional, for the benefit of all
the Congress operate merely as a limp arm
changed. It came to the House of Repre-
debate on at least three vital and contro-
the local governing unit bypassing entirely
like to talk about in our American political
of Government, bending like a wet noodle
the fifty states. I was glad and pleased to
segments of our society, are gone.
sentatives, a proposal that had a billion
versial issues involved in the education bill.
system and here I refer to what is called
to the will of the President who has a two
see that thirty-seven of our fifty Gover-
I must say as I sit on our side of the aisle
three hundred million dollars as the Fed-
Silenced, in effect, was the issue of state
the "two-party system." Our two-party sys-
to one majority in the House and in the
nors in this country have joined together to
tem is not constitutionally ordained Ameri-
in the House of Representatives with the
eral contribution in the first instance-a bill
and church.
Senate.
object and to fight this bypassing of the
small band of 141 members, and look at
that had wide ramifications concerning our
Silenced was the vital issue of the ex-
can, but early in America's history our fore-
What is a practical application of this
State Governments.
local educational systems.
fathers decided that a two-party system was
that mass of humanity across the aisle, that
situation today? Let me give you two spe-
penditure of one billion three hundred mil-
We also have another illustration: The
for the best interest of all our people. As a
I am a little jealous and at times have been
cific examples. I won't necessarily comment
The word was also passed from the White
lion dollars in the first year and five billion
Congress passed a few months ago a Fed-
discouraged. Particularly am I discouraged
on the merits or lack of merits of the legis-
House that when the bill came to the floor
dollars annually beginning in the third.
result, we have avoided the loss of free-
eral Aid to Education Bill and one of the
dom that exists in one-party governments
when I see these messages come down from
lative proposals, but I think you ought to be
of the House, it should not be changed
Silenced for all intent and purpose was
key provisions in the bill as it passed the
throughout the world. We have also avoided
the White House and I see many, many, too
interested in what actually happens in these
there. What happened? With the over-
debate on the fundamental issue of Federal
House and the Senate was again the by-
the chaos and confusion that results from
many of my Democratic friends, not know-
two vital areas.
whelming numerical superiority this bill
Aid itself.
WAYNE HUMMER & Co.
81
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Page 6
Executives' Club News
Executives' Club News
Page 7
In my judgment these were issues that
GUESTS AND MEMBERS SEATED AT THE SPEAKER'S TABLE
characters, somewhat disheveled, holding
ties and not pass them off to the Federal
REPRESENTATIVE FORD: The answer
should have been given complete and ex-
SEPTEMBER 10, 1965
mass meetings on campuses throughout the
Government.
is that tht Republicans in both the House
haustive debate. The muting of open debate
Mr. Norton Kay, Political Editor, Chicago's Amer-
Mr. Harvey S. Olson, President, Olson Travel Or.
country. They are a small minority of the
on vital and controversial issues falls far
ican.
ganization, (Director & Immediate Past Presi-
Yes, I am convinced that those of us in
and the Senate, particularly in the House,
Mr. Richard W. Huthert, President, Liquid Fuels
dent of The Club).
academic world. I am not as worried about
have not been the crucial votes that have
short of serving the best interests of the
the minority party are making headway. I
Company.
Mr. Kenneth S. Kamm, Former Scholarship Win-
their personal hygiene as I am about what
American people. (Applause)
Mr. Hayes Robertson, Chairman of the Board,
ner Awarded by The Executives' Club.
can assure you that we believe in the Re-
permitted the enactment of many of the
Chicago Fittings Corporation.
they and others who are undermining our
Mr. Robert E. English, Justice, Appellate Court of
publican Party, and that we must first have
so-called welfare programs. Just the other
Mr. Thomas J. Houser, Attorney, Chicago, Bur-
Illinois.
policy might do as far as the enemy is con-
a truly national party-a party in every
day, for example, I had a study made of the
lington & Quincy Railroad.
Examples of Gag Rule
Mr. John Dreiske, Political Editor, Chicago Sun-
Mr. Timothy P. Sheehan, Chairman, Republican
cerned. Their knowing far outweighs their
state-candidates, good candidates, running
25 issues in the House where the Republi-
Times.
Central Committee.
influence and it is conceivable that those
Mr. Clinton E. Frank, Chairman of the Executive
Mr. Ragnar Benson, Chairman of the Board, Rag-
for every elective office. We must have a
can House Policy Committee took a stand in
One of the most brazen examples of gag
Committee, Clinton E. Frank Inc.
nar Benson Incorporated.
who make the laws could lead to the enemy
better party organization and Ray Bliss is
opposition to the White House proposals
rule was the restriction clamped on the de-
Mr. Ward L. Quaal, President & General Man-
Mr. Charles H. Percy, Chairman, Bell & Howell
miscalculating the high degree of unity we
ager, WGN, Inc.
giving us just that. We must have a better
and on those 25 issues, 94% of the Repub-
Company, (Member, Executive Committee of
bate in the House of Representatives on
Mr. A. Thomas Etcheson, President, Lake Shore
the Club).
have in America in meeting the challenge
Bank.
program. We cannot concede that all of the
licans had voted together in opposition to
the controversial issue to repeal Section
National
Mr. James P. Gorter, Partner, Goldman, Sachs &
of Communist aggression. Therefore, it
Mr. Leo Burnett, Chairman of the Board, Leo
Company.
ideas, all of the imagination exists only in
the White House demands for legislation.
14-B of the Taft-Hartley Act. In this case,
Burnett Company.
seems to me that the President, in order to
Mr. Edward J. Hekman, President, United Biscuit
the Democratic Party. We must be creative,
In contrast, I might say the Democratic
I will say I voted against it. I believe the
Mr. Wyatt Jacobs, Partner, Jacobs & McKenna.
Co. of America.
unify America and drown out these limited
we must be imaginative, and if we are, I am
Party had a split of 23% against the White
Mr. Gerald R. Ford. Jr., Congressman, Minority
Taft-Hartley Act should not have been
Leader, House of Representatives (Guest Speak-
Mr. Martin J. Koldyke, Manager, Corporate Fi-
voices, ought to come to the Congress and
convinced we can have a program that will
House and 77% voting with the White
er)
nance Dep't., Paine, Webber, Jackson & Curtis,
emasculated by the President's request for
Mr. Francis T. Delaney, Attorney.
report on the state of the emergency, en-
Mr. Donald J. Erickson, Partner, Arthur Ander-
appeal to the American people.
House. It is particularly significant, I think,
the repeal of Section 14-B. (Applause)
sen & Company, (President, The Executives'
Mr. Carl E. Atwood, President, Forest Atwood
listing the help and assistance of Democrats,
that the Democratic freshmen, those elected
Club).
Paper Company.
Republicans and Independents throughout
Yes, I am an optimist for another reason.
in 1964, almost unanimously supported the
But what I object to most was the parlia-
the country, calling upon those of us in the
There is a growing apprehension by our
White House demands for various legisla-
mentary technique that was used to give the
minority party to help and assist as we face
citizens, there is a growing realization that
tive proposals.
members of the House of Representatives,
prevented from coming to the floor of the
relevance in foreign policy matters?" My
these problems that could well affect our
our system is the finest in the history of
Democrats and Republicans alike, an op-
In contrast, almost all the Republican
House.
answer is, "Yes." A strong minority party
future.
mankind. We believe in our Constitution.
freshmen were in opposition. So it is a
portunity to perfect, to change this request
today, numerically and otherwise, would be
Those wise men who put it together almost
that came from the White House. As you
Under the parliamentary procedure which
misstatement of fact to say that the Repub-
all know, Section 14-B is just one section
was used, no amendment could be of-
of tremendous help to President Johnson.
Cause for Optimism
200 years ago made an historic document.
licans have given strong support to the
I say this for two reasons. In the first place,
But, let me say, it is politics and politicians
of the Taft-Hartley Act. The bill came from
fered to protect those who for religious
various White House proposals in many of
in the problems we are currently having in
Now I have talked as though I had been
that have put the breath of life and the
reasons, conscientious objectors, the people
these welfare areas.
the Committee on Education and Labor, a
Viet Nam, it is the Republican leadership
fearful, apprehensive, and pessimistic. I am
blood in the veins of the still bones of a
very simple one-page proposal to repeal
who had religious or conscientious reasons
and the Republicans in the House and Sen-
to a very limited extent. On the other hand,
constitutional system.
QUESTION: This is kind of a hot one,
Section 14 B. Under the parliamentary pro-
for not wanting to join a union, could be
forced to join a union. An amendment that
ate who have given the strongest support to
I am optimistic and let me tell you why. In
Mr. Congressman. "What was the na-
cedure which was used, no amendments to
And so I conclude with these observa-
a firmness against Communist aggression.
the first place, I have a strong abiding faith
ture of your controversy with President
this proposal could be offered. The net effect
would have protected these rights was pre-
tions. Each of you in your own way must
Johnson?"
cluded from being offered and considered
(Applause)
in the good judgment of the people of
was that any one who tried to offer an
America, and I have a strong abiding faith
be a politician or in politics. For yourself,
REPRESENTATIVE FORD: It is an in-
amendment was ruled out of order.
by the membership as a whole.
The principal opposition that the Presi-
in those who are giving leadership to our
for your posterity, for your state, for your
teresting experience to stand eyeball-to-
dent has to his current policies in Viet Nam
country. I am convinced that Congress will
nation, you must participate, and I am sure
It seems to me that the wrong use of
eyeball with the White House for about ten
For example, some of us felt that if Sec-
come from a small group of Democratic
power in this case was as objectionable as
take steps to improve its image, to improve
you will. Thank you very much. (Applause)
days, but the background is simply this.
tion 14-B was to be repealed, at least certain
Senators and they are the ones who are
the wrong use of power in the case of the
its day to day workings. As a matter of fact,
PRESIDENT ERICKSON: Let me say,
There was a White House meeting with
particular safeguards ought to be written
putting the burrs under the President. They
Federal Aid to Education Bill. I might add
we have a joint House-Senate Committee
Mr. Congressman, that up to and including
the legislative leaders, both Democrats and
into the law for the protection of the indi-
are the ones who in effect are saying, "We
a footnote at this point-I applaud what I
working right now on proposals that I think
now, the Executives' Club has had outstand-
Republicans and the top ranking officials
vidual working man who was forced to join
should retreat to Pearl Harbor."
understand will be the effort made by Sena-
will make us a better legislative body. I
ing programs. (Applause)
of the Executive branch of the Government.
a union. Under the procedure which was
tor Dirksen and others to prevent this pro-
So a stronger minority party today would
think most Americans are realizing today
used, amendments of this nature were ruled
We have had quite a few questions an-
About five days later, one of my colleagues
posal from the White House from going
be of help to the President in the critical
that they have to help the Congress become
swered by the remarks of our speaker, but
in the House Republican leadership and I
out of order. No amendment was permitted
that would have prevented a union from
through the Senate without an adequate
issues we face in South Viet Nam.
a stronger partner in the relationship of
there are some I think he might like to
had a luncheon for seven or eight very
debate and full consideration by that body.
I also think a strong two-party system and
the judicial system and with the Executive
discriminating against a member on account
touch upon if for no other reason than for
prominent and very responsible newspaper
(Applause)
branch of the Government.
of race, color or creed.
informed policy would be helpful in meet-
emphasis.
people. During the course of this luncheon,
ing the challenge of a small minority of
I believe that our Governors in many
questions were asked of me as to what trans-
First of all:
Under the parliamentary procedure, an
Minority Party and Foreign Policy
professors and students on the campuses of
states now realize that if their unit of gov-
pired at the White House meeting of a few
amendment which was offered that would
our country. Now we have seen these signs
ernment is to be a strong partner, they must
"Why are so many Republicans giving
days before.
have prevented unions from collecting dues
The question might be asked, "Does a
of students which read, "Why die for Viet
modernize their Constitutions. They must
the Administration the 'push' needed to put
I spoke in general terms and pointed out
and using them for political purposes was
strong two-party system have any current
Nam?" We have seen some of these bearded
improve their desire to assume responsibili-
through many of these welfare bills?"
the truth to these newspaper people. It was
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Page 8
Executives' Club News
the Republicans who were giving the strong-
QUESTION: "How do you feel about
QUESTION: "A recent Forbes Magazine
est support to a firmness against Communist
'splinter groups' in the Party? Do they serve
editorial entitled, 'Congress Go Home,'
aggression in Southeast Asia. On the other
a purpose?"
urged the House and Senate to take a month
hand, I pointed out that four or five Demo-
off in August, or two if possible, to rest and
cratic Senators were those giving the Presi-
REPRESENTATIVE FORD: Naturally,
recharge the members. Do you agree?"
dent the most trouble.
splinter groups do create some problems. I
REPRESENTATIVE FORD: Of course
This got into four or five newspapers
happen to believe that a strong Party or-
ganization is the best way to use your man-
my appraisal of this Congress is that it is
throughout the country. The President saw
long on quantity and very short on quality.
it and was given certain misinformation as
power, your money and your ideas. But, it
The sooner we adjourn, the better it will be
to what transpired at the luncheon Mel
must be conceded that following the election
for the United States. (Applause)
Laird of Wisconsin and I had. Without
of 1964, the Republican National Commit-
checking the facts, the President made these
tee and many of our state organizations
I do think it would be wholesome and
accusations.
rather fell apart. The net result was that
helpful for the members of the House and
Fortunately, one of the newspapermen or
various splinter groups were organized to
the Senate, both Democrats and Republi-
one of the men who writes for one of our
fill this void.
cans, to get back and get reacquainted with
national magazines was up for vacation in
their constituents. You get a distorted view
I think the National Committee is getting
New Hampshire. He read these stories and
of the United States and the views of 195
completely on his own, unsolicited by me,
re-organized and you can't eliminate those
million people by spending too much time
wrote me a one-page letter saying, "The
splinter groups that have been organized,
on the banks of the Potomac. The quicker
President is wrong, I was there. I asked the
but you can try to bring them within the
we get out, the less bad legislation will pass,
question which prompted the diatribe from
Party organization. I think as the Party
the more opportunity the citizens of Amer-
the White House, and If you want to, you
organization gets stronger, these various or-
ica will have to communicate with their
can send this to the White House and make
ganizations will become a part of the organ-
Congressman and Senator. When they do, if
it public."
ization headed by Ray Bliss. You certainly
my appraisal of the situation is correct, you
can't help the cause any by condemning
will find a different atmosphere in the Con-
At the news conference with Senator
Dirksen later that day, I released the letter
splinter groups. I think you have to per-
gress during the next session. (Applause)
and sent it to the President, asking him
suade them that they can serve the cause bet-
PRESIDENT ERICKSON: Thank you,
for an opportunity to straighten out the
ter by being a part of the organization and
Congressman Ford, for a very enlightening
record. I must say, thus far I have had no
this is what we are trying to do today.
and interesting discussion. The meeting is
response from the White House. (Laughter)
(Applause)
adjourned.
NEW MEMBERS
Harry B. Aronson, President
Lee R. Farmer, Executive Vice President
Karle B. Meyer, Director of Maintenance
Waltham Watch Company
National-Ben Franklin Insurance Co.
The Willett Co.
231 S. Jefferson St.
AN 3-7555
360 W. Jackson Blvd.
341-2846
700 S. Desplaines St.
WE 9-1000
Sponsor: Edmund G. Elsner
Sponsor: Ralph O. Butz
Sponsor: Howard A. Krueger
Orrin Barnum, Treasurer-Central Area
Edmund J. O'Brien, General Counsel
United States Steel Corporation
Karl S. Geiges, Senior Vice President
Lumbermens Mutual Casualty Company
208 S. La Salle St.
CE 6-9200
Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc.
4750 Sheridan Rd.
LO 1-8000
Sponsor: Everett G. Barrett
207 E. Ohio St.
MI 2-6969
Sponsor: Chase M. Smith
Sponsor: Norman H. Davis, Jr.
Charles Bimba, President
Kenneth T. O'Dell, Controller
The Bimba Manufacturing Company
Edward J. Gessner, Manager
Griffith Laboratories, Inc.
Monee, Illinois
Management Services
1415 W. 37th St.
LA 3-7505
Sponsor: Francis J. Welsh
208 S. La Salle St.
346-9610
Sponsor: Joseph M. Kubert
Sponsor: Michael R. Notaro
Edwin R. Blomquist, President
John E. Streetman, Vice President
Blomquist Reporting Service, Inc.
Allied Mills, Inc.
105 W. Madison St.
ST 2-3580
Theodore E. Hanson, Partner
110 N. Wacker Dr.
FI 6-5060
Sponsor: Sumner W. Mead
Peat, Marwick, Mitchell & Co.
Sponsor: Elmer W. Lenz
111 W. Monroe St.
FI 6-7200
John E. Comerford, President
Sponsor: Bruce Hoover
Charles R. Waller, President
Merit Shank and Stamping Co.
Bob Waller, Incorporated
578 S. Vista, Addison, III.
625-1240
6606 Navajo, Lincolnwood, III.
OR 5-2910
Sponsor: Edmund G. Elsner
Oscar V. Johnston
Sponsor: Rev. Charles A. Williams
Assistant Vice President Sales-Central Region
National Steel Corp.
Mel Danker, Sales Manager,
111 W. Monroe St.
FI 6-4950
Dale V. Warner, Manager, Industrial Sales
National Account Div.
Sponsor: Robert F. Roelofs
Robert S. Knowles, Inc.
Bankers Life and Casualty Co.
351 E. Ohio St.
DE 7-1900
4444 W. Lawrence Ave.
SP 7-7000
Sponsor: Robert S. Knowles
Sponsor: C. Henry Austin
Philip H. Kammerer
Executive Director of Agencies
Marvin W. Derner
The Prudential Insurance Co. of America
Donald B. Weber, Account Executive
Director of Advertising & Public Relations
Prudential Plaza
943-2800
Foote, Cone & Belding, Inc.
Sponsor: Raymond W. Cobb
155 E. Superior St.
SU 7-4800
Bell Savings and Loan Association
79 W. Monroe St.
FI 6-1000
Sponsor: Charles S. Winston, Jr.
Sponsor: Bennett H. Crofford
Irwin H. Leiferman, President
Richard W. Whitson
Leiferman Investment Co.
Richard H. Deutsch, Partner
Vice President, National Account Sales
33 N. La Salle St.
FR 2-5787
Rusnak, Deutsch & Gilbert
Calmark Mailing Service, Inc.
Sponsor: James G. Coe
208 S. La Salle St.
FI 6-5250
1401 W. 43rd St.
247-7200
Sponsor: Donald I. Roth
Sponsors: Marvin W. Ehlers & Harry D. Thorsen
Frederick D. Logan, President
G. Grant Dixon, Jr., Vice President & Treasurer
Genn & Logan Associates, Inc.
George F. Wilhelm, President
G. Grant Dixon & Sons, Inc.
246-6200
629 S. 25th Ave., Bellwood, III.
LI 7-9414
R. S. Bacon Veneer Company
818 Hillgrove Ave., Western Springs, III.
Sponsor: George A. Anderson
4702 Augusta Blvd.
378-8500
Sponsor: Ralph O. Butz
Sponsor: George A. Anderson
John W. Dragomier, Account Executive
Glenn W. McGee, Partner
George E. Woods, Investment Banker
AM Radio Sales Co.
Chadwell, Keck, Kayser, Ruggles & McLaren
Eastman Dillon Union Securities
400 N. Michigan Ave.
MO 4-6555
135 S. La Salle St.
RA 6-2545
135 S. La Salle St.
782-0370
Sponsor: Alex Dreier
Sponsor: Ralph O. Butz
Sponsor: Donell D. Moor
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
Excerpts from an address
For release
The Executives' Club of Chicago
Noon CDT
September 10, 1965
9/10/65
Without over-indulgence in political partisanship, I am sure we can
agree that a strong two-party system and a meaningful balance in government
are best for the national interest.
When the balance of power is critically and steeply tilted by an over-
whelming majority in either political party, we have collective conformity
in government.
Today one political party controls Congress by a two to one majority.
The situation prompted one Washington quipster to comment: "When the
President sends a message to Congress, his political partisans don't know
whether to clap their hands or click their heels."
The President recently predicted that this Congress "will leap into
history as the most effective and most rewarding Congress for all the
people in all the history of America."
His praise is understandable. This Congress has given him almost
everything he wants.
The President has virtually unlimited resources for working his will---
a veritable army of experts, authorities, researchers and the like. This
establishment is available to every Chief Executive, no matter his political
party.
At this point in history, the President commands a branch of government
that employes more than 2/million civilians and controls the destiny of
2 million 600-thousand military personnel. These two groups have a payroll
cost totalling $28 billion. Together they will spend more than 127-billion
tax dollars in fiscal 1966,
For the sake of comparison in establishing the slanted balance of power
in government, it can be pointed out that the number of employes in the
Congressional legislative branch total little more than 9,000 persons.
-more-
Speech excerpts
Rep. Gerald R. Ford
Chicago Sept. 10, 1965
-2-
The question to be answered is whether the Congress operates merely as
a limp arm of government, bending like a wet noodle to the will of a
President armed with a 2 to 1 majority in the House and Senate or whether
it is to be a strong, coordinate branch of government exercising fair but
independent judgment.
Within the intent of the Constitution has the present Congress been
effective? Has there been independent judgment? Has there been enough
questioning and investigation of proposed legislation?
The documented record provides the answers.
The federal school aid bill, which will cost $1.3 billion in the first
year of operation, is a good example of the silence imposed on the elected
representatives on Capitol Hill by the existance of political power and
the brutal use of such power,
House Republicans prepared 29 amendments each aimed at making the
proposed legislation more sensible, more meaningful and more within the
guidelines of the Constitution.
Of these, four were debated only five minutes and 14 were allowed no
debate. Authors of the latter amendments were given no opportunity to
explain them to their colleagues.
The silent treatment was given to several amendments that would have
concentrated $200 million in Federal funds on the education needs of
economically-deprived children.
The silent treatment was ordered for another amendment requiring state
approval of supplementary educational centers to assure coordination of
Federal activities with state plans and policies.
The silent treatment was given to an amendment demanding that Federally-
financed local education centers be conducted in accordance with State law.
The silent treatment was given to an amendment to remove the Federal
government from involvement in buying textbooks.
The silent treatment was given to an amendment that would remove
Federal standards of approval for local educational centers.
The silent treatment prevented exhaustive debate on at least three vital
and controversial issues involved in the education bill,
- more -
Speech excerpts
Rep. Gerald R. Ford
Chicago Sept. 10, 1965
-3-
* Silenced in effect was the issue of state and church.
Silenced was the vital issue of the expenditure of $I.3 billion
in just one year drawing from the federal treasury at a time when
the Nation faces a growing need for more defense spending.
* Silenced for all intent and purpose was debate on the fundamental
issue of federal aid itself.
These were the issues which should have been given complete, exhaustive
debate in public discussion. The muting of open debate on vital and
controversial issues falls short of serving the American people.
One of the most brazen uses of gag rule was the restriction clamped
on debate of the controversial proposal to repeal the right-to-work
law
more formally known as Section 14-B of the Taft-Hartley Act.
By the use of raw power
284 on one side of the House aisle versus
141 on the other debate was severely limited. At the same time and by
the identical method any opportunity to offer meaningful amendments
was blocked.
Action by the Administration-controlled House ignored public opinion,
All the national polls, plus the results of numerous questionnaires sent
out by Congressmen, consistently indicated most Americans favor the right
of each state to outlaw compulsory unionism and are against repealing 14-B.
The House, in voting to repeal Section 14-B, failed to consider
proposals based on effective safeguards aimed at protecting the basic
rights of workers.
A proposal that came from the minority side of the House provided it
would be unlawful for a union entering into an agreement requiring membership
as a condition of employment,
1. To discriminate on account of race, color, or creed;
2. To use dues or assessments for political purposes or for any other
purpose not related to the union's statutory function as collect-
ive bargaining agent; and
3. To fine or penalize a member for exercising any legal or civil
right guaranteed by the Constitution or laws of the United States.
The majority in the House, in voting to emasculate a vital question of the
Taft-Hartley Act, approved federally-sanctioned compulsory unionism without
safegaurds for the individual worker.
- more -
Speech excerpts
Rep. Gerald R. Ford
Chicago Sept. 10, 1965
Perhaps the most worthy amendment supported by the minority would have
exempted from the effect of union shop agreements those persons with
conscientious religious convictions against joining or financially supporting
a labor organization.
The majority rejected this amendment even though these persons would pay
an amount equal to union dues into the U.S. treasury or a recognized charity.
The House virtually ordered second-class citizenship for millions of
workers. And it went on record in favor of forcing thousands of workers to
choose between their jobs, bread for their families, and their religious
convictions.
It is amazing that the same government which will excuse a conscientious
religious objector from military service to his country will force him to
join a labor union in order to earn a living.
*
*
*
Turning to the vital area of national security, the Nation should question
the absence of substantial dialogue in Congress on the topic of war in
Southeast Asia.
A year ago, Congress gave the President somewhat broad powers for fighting
Communist aggression. However, this did not mean a blank check in perpetuity.
Only a few voices have raised questions regarding the wisdom and
soundness of some military steps. Few have chosen to publicly discuss the
issue of foreign policy, including the involvement in a massive ground war
on the enemy's terms.
In the national interest, Congress should adopt a bi-partisan approach
to the free world's fight against Communist aggression and the defense of
our country.
However, a bi-partisan approach does not rule out responsible dialogue
and debate. Neither should it silence those who raise questions and make
suggestions,
Aside from its silence on foreign issues, Congress this year has possibly
set a record for spending on the domestic scene without adequate and
in-depth debate. The record proves it.
*
Based on fact, example and Congressional performance, the imbalance in
government becomes obvious,
- more-
Speech excerpts
Rep. Gerald R. Ford
Chicago Sept. 10, 1965
- 5 -
What is the solution? Under our system there appears to be one
to
strengthen the two-party system.
I urge that all Americans be more aware of what is at stake on a
day-to-day basis in Washington. This demands careful, constant analysis.
Talk to members of Congress. Exchange views. Debate your points. And
do this before elected officials are committed on issues and before they
have made decisions.
More Americans should become active in a political party after carefully
studying the philosophies of each.
For the preservation of our political and economic systems, each person
must exercise the right to vote--not just every four years, but in each
election.
In asking for a reawakening of the American electorate, we can look into
history. Almost from the start our Nation chose to have our government
operated through two great political parties. By this wise decision we
avoided the chaos of multi-party government and the loss of freedom under
a single party system.
Among the great challenges of our time is the strengthening of the
two-party system to re-establish balance in government.
I am confident this challenge will be met by citizens with patience,
imagination, courage and willingness to sacrifice to make the future better
than the past with government more representative of all the people than
at present.
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
Excerpts from an address
For release
The Executives' Club of Chicago
Noon CDT
September 10, 1965
9/10/65
Without over-indulgence in political partisanship, I am sure we can
agree that a strong two-party system and a maaningful balance in government
are best for the national interest.
When the balance of power is critically and steeply tilted by an over-
whelming majority in either political party, we have collective conformity
in government.
Today one political party controls Congress by a two to one majority.
The situation prompted one Washington quipster to comment: "When the
President sends a message to Congress, his political partisans don't know
whether to clap their hands or click their heels."
The President recently predicted that this Congress "will leap into
history as the most effective and most rewarding Congress for all the
people in all the history of America."
His praise is understandable. This Congress has given him almost
everything he wants.
The President has virtually unlimited resources for working his will---
a veritable army of experts, authoribies, researchers and the like. This
establishment is available to every Chief Executive, no matter his political
party.
At this point in history, the President commands a branch of government
that employes more than 22-million civilians and controls the destiny of
2 million 600-thousand military personnel. These two groups have a payroll
cost totalling $28 billion. Together they will spend more than 127-billion
tax dollars in fiscal 1966,
For the sake of comparison in establishing the slanted balance of power
in government, it can be pointed out that the number of employes in the
Congressional legislative branch total little more than 9,000 persons.
-more-
GERALD
Speech excerpts
Rep. Gerald R. Ford
Chicago Sept. 10, 1965
-2-
The question to be answered is whether the Congress operates merely as
a limp arm of government, bending like a wet noodle to the will of a
President armed with a 2 to 1 majority in the House and Senate or whether
it is to be a strong, coordinate branch of government exercising fair but
independent judgment,
Within the intent of the Constitution has the present Congress been
effective? Has there been independent judgment? Has there been enough
questioning and investigation of proposed legislation?
The documented record provides the answers.
The federal school aid bill, which will cost $1.3 billion in the first
year of operation, is a good example of the silence imposed on the elected
representatives on Capitol Hill by the existance of political power and
the brutal use of such power.
House Republicans prepared 29 amendments each aimed at making the
proposed legislation more sensible, more meaningful and more within the
guidelines of the Constitution.
Of these, four were debated only five minutes and 14 were allowed no
debate. Authors of the latter amendments were given no opportunity to
explain them to their colleagues.
The silent treatment was given to several amendments that would have
concentrated $200 million in Federal funds on the education needs of
economically-deprived children.
The silent treatment was ordered for another amendment requiring state
approval of supplementary educational centers to assure coordination of
Federal activities with state plans and policies.
The silent treatment was given to an amendment demanding that Federally-
financed local education centers be conducted in accordance with State law.
The silent treatment was given to an amendment to remove the Federal
government from involvement in buying textbooks.
The silent treatment was given to an amendment that would remove
Federal standards of approval for local educational centers.
The silent treatment prevented exhaustive debate on at least three vital
and controversial issues involved in the education bill.
- more -
Speech excerpts
Rep. Gerald R. Ford
Chicago Sept. 10, 1965
-3-
* Silenced in effect was the issue of state and church.
* Silenced was the vital issue of the expenditure of $1.3 billion
in just one year drawing from the federal treasury at a time when
the Nation faces a growing need for more defense spending.
* Silenced for all intent and purpose was debate on the fundamental
issue of federal aid itself.
These were the issues which should have been given complete, exhaustive
debate in public discussion. The muting of open debate on vital and
controversial issues falls short of serving the American people.
One of the most brazen uses of gag rule was the restriction clamped
on debate of the controversial proposal to repeal the right-to-work
law
more formally known as Section 14-B of the Taft-Hartley Act.
By the use of raw power 284 on one side of the House aisle versus
141 on the other
debate was severely limited. At the same time and by
the identical method any opportunity to offer meaningful amendments
was blocked.
Action by the Administration-controlled House ignored public opinion.
All the national polls, plus the results of numerous questionnaires sent
out by Congressmen, consistently indicated most Americans favor the right
of each state to outlaw compulsory unionism and are against repealing 14-B.
The House, in voting to repeal Section 14-B, failed to consider
proposals based on effective safeguards aimed at protecting the basic
rights of workers.
A proposal that came from the minority side of the House provided it
would be unlawful for a union entering into an agreement requiring membership
as a condition of employment,
1. To discriminate on account of race, color, or creed;
2. To use dues or assessments for political purposes or for any other
purpose not related to the union's statutory function as collect-
ive bargaining agent; and
3. To fine or penalize a member for exercising any legal or civil
right guaranteed by the Constitution or laws of the United States.
The majority in the House, in voting to emasculate a vital question of the
Taft-Hartley Act, approved federally-sanctioned compulsory unionism without
safegaurds for the individual worker.
- more -
Speech excerpts
Rep. Gerald R. Ford
Chicago Sept. 10, 1965
-4-
Perhaps the most worthy amendment supported by the minority would have
exempted from the effect of union shop agreements those persons with
conscientious religious convictions against joining or financially supporting
a labor organization.
The majority rejected this amendment even though these persons would pay
an amount equal to union dues into the U.S. treasury or a recognized charity.
The House virtually ordered second-class citizenship for millions of
workers. And it went on record in favor of forcing thousands of workers to
choose between their jobs, bread for their families, and their religious
convictions.
It is amazing that the same government which will excuse a conscientious
religious objector from military service to his country will force him to
join a labor union in order to earn a living.
*
*
*
Turning to the vital area of national security, the Nation should question
the absence of substantial dialogue in Congress on the topic of war in
Southeast Asia.
A year ago, Congress gave the President somewhat broad powers for fighting
Communist aggression. However, this did not mean a blank check in perpetuity.
Only a few voices have raised questions regarding the wisdom and
soundness of some military steps. Few have chosen to publicly discuss the
issue of foreign policy, including the involvement in a massive ground war
on the enemy's terms.
In the national interest, Congress should adopt a bi-partisan approach
to the free world's fight against Communist aggression and the defense of
our country.
However, a bi-partisan approach does not rule out responsible dialogue
and debate. Neither should it silence those who raise questions and make
suggestions.
Aside from its silence on foreign issues, Congress this year has possibly
set a record for spending on the domestic scene without adequate and
in-depth debate. The record proves it.
*
*
*
Based on fact, example and Congressional performance, the imbalance in
government becomes obvious.
- more-
Speech excerpts Rep. Gerald R. Ford
Chicago Sept. 10, 1965
DO 5 -
What is the solution? Under our system there appears to be one
to
strengthen the two-party system.
I urge that all Americans be more aware of what is at stake on a
day-to-day basis in Washington. This demands careful, constant analysis.
Talk to members of Congress. Exchange views. Debate your points. And
do this before elected officials are committed on issues and before they
have made decisions.
More Americans should become active in a political party after carefully
studying the philosophies of each,
For the preservation of our political and economic systems, each person
must exercise the right to vote--not just every four years, but in each
election.
In asking for a reawakening of the American electorate, we can look into
history. Almost from the start our Nation chose to have our government
operated through two great political parties. By this wise decision we
avoided the chaos of multi-party government and the loss of freedom under
a single party system.
Among the great challenges of our time is the strengthening of the
two-party system to re-establish balance in government.
I am confident this challenge will be met by citizens with patience,
imagination, courage and willingness to sacrifice to make the future better
than the past with government more representative of all the people than
at present.
Excerpts from an
Address by Rep. Gerald R. Ford, House Republican Leader
The Executive Club of Chicago
Sept. 10, 1965
Without over-indulgence in political partismnship, I am sure
we can agree that a strong two-party system and a meaningful balance
in government are best for the national interest.
When the balance of power is critically and steeply tilted by
an overwhelming majority in either political party, we have
collective conformity in government.
Today, one political party controls Congress by a two to one
majority. The situation prompted one Washington quipster to
comment: "When the President sends a message to Congress, his
political partisans don't know whether to clap their hands or
click their heels."
The President recently predicted that this Congress "will leap
into history as the most effective and most rewarding Congress for
all the people in all the history of America."
His praise is understandable. This Congress has given him almost
FORD LIBRARY GERAL
everything he wants.
-more-
Chicago
-2-
The President has virtually unlimited resources for working
his will a veritable army of experts, authorities, researchers
and the like. This establishment of intelligentsia is available to
every Chief Eexecutive, no matter his political affiliation.
At this point in history, the President commands a branch of
government that employes more than 2½-million civilians and controls
the destiny of 2 million 600-thousand military personnel. These
two groups have a payroll cost totalling $28 billion. Together they
will spend more than 127 billion tax dollars in fiscal 1966.
For the sake of comparison in establishing the slanted balance
of power in government, it can be pointed out that the number of
employes in the Congressional legislative branch total little more
than 9,000 persons.
The question to be answered is whether the Congress operates
merely as a limp arm of government, bending like a wet noodle to
the will of a Presidentarmed with a 2 to 1 majority in the House and
Senate oor whether it it is be a stroy, coordinate FORD
trank of greenment exercising fair but intefrement
LIBRARY
julgment
-more-
Chicago
-3-
Within the intent of the Constitution has the present
Congress been effective? Has there been enough questioning and
investigation of proposed legislation? Has then been integrestent judgment?
The documented record provides the answers.
The federal school aid bill, which will cost $1.3 billion
in the first year of operation, is a good example of the silence
imposed the elected on, Capital negresentatives Hill by political on power and the un Joseph power-
the wistance of
House Republicans prepared 29 amendments, each aimed at making
the proposed legislation more sensible, more meaningful and
more within the guiddines guidelnes of the Constitution.
Of these, four were debated only five minutes and 14 were
allowed no debate. Authors of the latter amendments were given
no opportunity to explain them to their colleagues.
The silent treatment was given to several amendments that
would have concentrated $200 million in Federal funds on the education
needs of economically-deprived children.
The silent treatment was ordered for another amendment requiring
state approval of supplementary educational centers to assure
GERALD LISAARY
coordination of Federal activities with state plans and policies.
Chicago
4-
The silent treatment was given to an amendment demanding that
Federally-financed local education centers be conducted in accordance
with State law.
The silent treatment was given to an amendment to remove the
Federal government from involvement in buying textbooks.
The silent treatment was given to an amendment that would remove
Federal standards of approved for local educational centers.
The silent treatment prevented exhaustive debate on at least
three vital and controversial issues involved in the education
bill.
* Silenced in effect was the issue of state and church.
* Silenced was the vital issue of the expenditure of $1.3 billion
.nd
in just one year, drawing from the federal treasury at a time
when the Nation faces a growing need for more defense spending.
* Silenced for all intent and purpose was debate on the
fundamental issue of federal aid itself.
These were the issues which should have been given complete
FORD i LIBRARY 97V839
exhaustive debate in public discussion.
-more-
Chicago
-5-
The muting of open debate on vital and controversial issues
falls short of serving the American people.
One of the most brazen examples of gag rule was the restriction
clamped on debate of the controversial proposal to repeal the
right-to-work law--more formally known as Section 14-B pf the
Taft-Hartley Act.
By the use of raw power--284 on one side of the House aisle
versus 141 on the other---debate was severely limited. At the same
time and by the identical method any opportunity to offer meaningful
amendments was blocked.
Action by the Administration-controlled House ignored public
opinion. All the national polls, plus the results of numerous
questionnaires sent out by Congressmen, consistently indicated
feach state to outlaw computing unimm
most Americans favor the right-to work provision and are against
146.
repealing is In present
The House, in voting to rephal Section 14-B, failed to consider
proposals based on effective safeguards aimed at protecting the
FORD & LIBRARY GERALD
basic rights of workers.
--more-
Chicago
A proposed Hill that came from the minority side of the House provided
it would be unlawful for a union entering into an agreement requiring
union membership as a condition of employment,
1. To discriminate on a ccount of race, color, or creed;
2. To use dues or assessments for political purposes or for
any other purpose not related to the union's statutory function
as collective bargaining agent; and
3. To fine or penalize a member for exercising any legal or civil
right guaranteed by the Constitution or the laws of the United States.
Thi mymy
emassulate a vital portron 9th Tape Hartly act
The
In voting to repeal the right to work prevision, tj approved
federally-sanctioned compulsory unionism without safeguards for the
individual worker.
Perhaps the most worthy amendment supported by the minority would have
exempted from the effect of union shop agreements those persons with
conscientious religious convictions against joining or financially
supporting a labor organization.
The majority rejected this amendment even though these persons would
pay an amount equal to union dues into the U.S. treasury or a
recognized charity.
-more-
FORD & LIBRAR.
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Witrado
Chicago
-7-
The House virtually ordered second-class citizenship for
in
millions of workers. And it went on record favori
the
forcing
thousands of workers to choose between their jobs, bread for their families and
their religious convictions.
Jtisamizing the same government which will excuse
for
Genguess that a
conscientious religious objector from military service
to for his country
toll
to join
force him into a labor union in order
to work.
earn a lung
If
the
bill
to
repeal
the
right
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act
becomes
law
in
smh?
the anti-trust flogrant American disregard laws people to of labor will the rise unions. people's up and will, demand we can the ask application how long of before
Turning to the vital area of national security, the Nation
should question the absence of substantial dialogue in Congress
on the topic of war in Southeast Asia.
Ayear ago, Congress gave the President somewhat broad powers
for fighting Communism aggression. However, this did not mean
FORD & LIBRARY
a blank check in perpetuity.
-more-
Chicago
-8-
Only a few voices have raised questions regarding the
wisdom and soundness of some military steps. Few have chosen
to publicly discuss the issue of foreign policy, including the
involvement in a massive ground war on the enemy's terms.
In the national interest, Congress should adopt a bi-partisan
approach to the free world's fight against Communist aggression
and the defense of our country.
However, a bi-partisan approach does not rule out responsible
dialggue and debate. Neither should it silence those who raise
questions and make suggestions.
Aside from its silence on foreign issues, Congress this year
has possibly set a record for spending on the domestic scene without
adequate and in-depth debate. The record proves it.
Based on fact, example and Congressional performance, the
imbalance in government becomes obvious.
What is the solution? Under our system there appears to be one ----
to strengthen the two-party system.
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
-more-
Chicago
-9-
I urge that all Americans be more aware of what is at stake
on a day-to-day basis in Washington. This demands a careful, constant
analysis.
Talk to members of Congress. Exchange views. Debate your points.
And do this before elected officials are committed on issues
and before they have made decisions.
More Americans should become active in a political party after
carefully studying the philosophies of each.
For the preservation of our political and economic systems,
vote---not just every
each person must exercise the right to
four years, but in each election.
reawakening
In asking for a respirating of the American electorate, we
can look to history. Almost from the start our nation chose to have
our government operated through two great political parties.
By this wise decision, we avoided the chaos of multi-party
and
government the loss of freedom under a single party system
is
Among the great challenges of our time the strengthening of
the two-party system to re-establish balance in government.
GERALD LIBRARY
-more-
Chicago
-10-
Examiness
I am confident this challenge will be met by citizens with
patience, imagination, courage and willingness to sacrifice to
with goreinment
make the future better than the past and more representative=
at
of all the people than take present.
#
GERALD